How can i handle a client asking to start work before a signed contract?

[Matthew_S]

I just had a potential client ask me to start working before the contract is finalized, saying the paperwork is "just a formality." I’m worried that agreeing to this could leave me unprotected if there’s a dispute over the scope or payment later. How do you all handle these requests to begin work without a signed agreement in place?

[Frank68]

I’ve pushed for a short paid discovery phase before diving in. I lay out a tiny scope, take a deposit, and attach a one page engagement note with deliverables and acceptance criteria. It buys time to see if we actually click and protects me from big unwritten changes down the line.

[Jerry9]

I've done a small pilot once with a strict cap and milestone-based invoices. If they’re happy with the pilot, we sign the real agreement; if not, we stop and bill for what’s done. It kept me from churning hours into a project that might never materialize, though the client still pushed for more.

[MiaR]

I tried starting without a formal doc once and the scope kept shifting and the payments dragged. Since then I insist on a clear scope and a deposit, plus quick change orders for any tweaks. A simple SOW saved me from bigger fights later, even if it felt slow to get going.

[Mark.T]

Sometimes I wonder if the problem is really about the work or about the relationship. Maybe they want to test you, or their cash flow is tight, or they’re unsure what success looks like. I’ve swung between marching ahead and pulling back, and I’m not sure what’s right here. Do you think the real issue is the scope, their finances, or them testing you?